If you’ve taken the steps to seal your criminal record in Nevada, you’ve already made a huge move toward reclaiming your privacy and rebuilding your reputation. But one of the most common questions people have after completing the record sealing process is:

“Will my sealed record show up on a background check?”

This guide explains what happens to your criminal records once they’re sealed, what employers and background check agencies can still access, and how Nevada law protects you after your record is sealed. What does it mean to seal records in Nevada?

When a district court or Las Vegas Justice Court signs an order to seal, the criminal record is removed from public access. The court clerk and agencies must restrict the public’s view of your criminal history. Sealing does not destroy the records—it limits who can see them.

A sealed record generally prevents most employers, screening companies, and the general public from viewing your criminal cases, arrests, or final disposition.

Which records can be sealed, and who is eligible?

Nevada law determines eligibility. After the waiting period and completion of a sentence or probation, many misdemeanors and some felonies can qualify. Notable exceptions include many sexual offenses and certain violent felonies.

To qualify, you must check the revised statutes, confirm whether your criminal charge is eligible, and typically obtain certified copies of your final disposition and criminal history record from the Nevada Department of Safety (DPS) and the local court that handled your case.

First step: obtain your entire criminal history and documentation

Before you file a petition to seal, request your criminal history and certified copies of dispositions. This includes records from the Las Vegas Justice Court, district court, and the Nevada criminal history repository.

These documents show case numbers, convictions, dismissals, dates, sentences, and whether you completed probation. A complete criminal history record is essential to prepare accurate record sealing forms or sample forms that your attorney will use.

How the petition process works

You file a petition in the court with jurisdiction over your criminal case. The court clerk processes the filing and serves the prosecutor or district attorney, who can review and object. In many counties, you submit one petition to seal multiple eligible cases.

The court will determine whether your record should be sealed based on the circumstances, statutory waiting period, and whether sealing is consistent with public safety or would harm the general public.

What background checks will show after sealing?

Once the court grants sealing and agencies receive the order, most employers and background checks will no longer display the sealed criminal records.

A standard employment background check or tenant screening will not reveal the sealed convictions or arrests. However, criminal justice agencies, courts, and some government entities may still access sealed files under certain conditions, such as:

• A law enforcement investigation into a new crime
• A court request in subsequent criminal cases
• Specific licensing boards reviewing professional license applications related to public safety

So while a sealed record protects you from public disclosure, it does not make records completely inaccessible for all agencies.

Sealed records and potential employers/job applications

After sealing, you may legally deny prior convictions on many job applications. Most employers who run routine background checks will not see sealed items.

But employers in sensitive fields—education, healthcare, or positions requiring security clearance—may request more detailed checks or ask licensing boards for information.

If such boards need access, they typically must follow statutory procedures to review sealed records.

Impact on professional licenses

If you’re applying for a professional license, certain agencies can request access to sealed or restricted records.

For example, boards overseeing medical practice, education, or public safety may investigate convictions even if sealed. When in doubt, disclose as required by the board’s forms—failure to disclose when explicitly asked can result in license denial.

An experienced attorney can help you present documentation (like the court’s order) and explain the final disposition to the licensing agency.

When sealing is denied: why and what to do

The court may deny a petition if the waiting period is unmet, the offense is ineligible (e.g., many sexual offenses), or the prosecutor objects successfully.

If denied, you can often correct issues—submit additional documentation, confirm certified copies, or refile after complying with requirements. A skilled attorney can identify why the judge denied the petition and guide your next steps.

Seal records vs. expungement vs. pardon

Nevada’s system focuses on sealing, not full expungement. Expungement implies erasure; in Nevada, sealed records remain but are hidden from public view. A pardon is a separate process that may restore certain civil rights but does not automatically seal records.

If your goal is to limit public access, sealing records is the correct process—consult an attorney for combined strategies where applicable.

Common errors in filing record sealing forms

Applicants often submit incomplete record sealing forms, forget to include certified copies, or fail to serve the prosecutor.

These mistakes delay processing and prolong public access to your criminal history. Use sample forms only as a template if you understand filing rules; otherwise, retain counsel to ensure your petition adheres to court procedures and local practices.

How long does the sealing process take?

Timing varies: simple misdemeanors may move quickly once eligibility is established; complex felony matters, multi-county files, or contested petitions take longer. Expect weeks to months for the court to process, and additional time for each agency to implement the order. The judge’s calendar, court clerk workload, and the district attorney’s review all affect timing.

Restore civil rights and move forward

Sealing helps protect your civil rights, reduces barriers to employment, and limits public records exposure.

Once sealed, your record is substantially restricted from public access, and your criminal history no longer hampers many opportunities. If you completed probation, paid fines, and met conditions, sealing can be a powerful step toward rebuilding life after conviction.

Conclusion

If you have criminal charges, prior arrests, or convictions, and want to seal records in Nevada, start by requesting your criminal history record and certified copies.

For help completing record sealing forms, coordinating with the district court, or addressing Clark County or Las Vegas Justice Court matters, contact Record Sealing Nevada.

Our attorneys specialize in sealing records, navigating court procedures, and protecting your future.

Contact us today for a free consultation and learn whether you qualify to seal your criminal record.